Ann Battelle Promoted to U17/U19 Freestyle Director
We are thrilled to announce that Ann Batelle has been promoted from U17/U19 Freestyle Head Coach to SSWSC Freestyle Director. Athletic Director Dave Stewart praised Ann for her work developing athletes, “I really value the perspective that Ann brings to the program. She has competed and won at the highest level of the sport and understands first-hand what it takes to succeed. At the same time, Ann’s experience has given her a unique perspective on the role of sport in the development of the whole person. She brings an athlete-centered approach that sees each kid as a person, not just an athlete, and that’s so valuable to the freestyle program and our community.”

Raised in Vermont, Ann began skiing moguls recreationally in high school. After graduating from Middlebury College, Ann moved to Steamboat Springs to join the SSWSC and pursue her dreams of being an Olympian. Competing in the Rocky Mountain Freestyle circuit for two years, Ann achieved her dream, representing Team USA in 1992 at the Albertville Olympic Games. She also competed in the 1994, 1998, and 2002 Olympics, six World Championships, and 108 World Cup competitions. Post-competing, Ann ran 5 Circle Fitness, a sports conditioning company, for ten years. She returned to Steamboat in 2014 with her husband, Sascha Ayad, and two daughters, Emmy and Anabel. Now entering her 10th year coaching at SSWSC, Ann has coached at all levels in the mogul program and is excited to continue to help her athletes dream big.

Please join us in congratulating Ann on her new role!